Portable lantern light with multiple operating modes

ABSTRACT

A portable lantern light is configured to be operated in a range of selectable operational modes to provide flexible illumination solutions in both stationary and portable situations. The lantern light includes an elongated central body with a plurality of external longitudinal ribs, longitudinal channels positioned between a pair of external ribs, a lighting element residing within the channel, and a lens overlying the lighting element that acts as a primary optic. A power source that includes a battery cartridge is removably inserted within a receiver of the central body. The lantern light includes an operating mode selector assembly to control which lighting elements are illuminated during operation of the portable lantern light, and a luminosity selector assembly to selectively control the lumen output (brightness) of the lighting elements. The lantern light also includes a retractable stabilization assembly that can be deployed to stabilize the light on a support surface.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application claims the benefit of Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 62/549,247, filed on Aug. 23, 2017 and Ser. No. 29/614,796, filed onAug. 23, 2017, which applications are incorporated in their entiretyherein by reference and made a part hereof.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

N/A

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to a portable lantern light with a centralbattery that has multiple operating modes and multiple mountingconfigurations. In particular, the portable lantern light includes oneor more light-emitting elements selectively operable among a pluralityof modes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Existing lighting products enables a wide range of indoor, outdoor andnighttime activities. Electronic lighting is typically provided fromfixed installations (e.g., a roof, a wall, or ceiling), where a lightsource receives electrical power from a fixed and wired power source.Such lighting is useful in illuminating a particular area, but lacks theflexibility of a portable lighting source. Internally-powered portablelighting sources have been developed to provide illumination in variedlocations and situations. However, such internally-powered portablelighting sources are not optimized for size, durability, form-factor,illumination flexibility and mounting flexibility parameters. Further,portable lighting sources are also not optimized to provide illuminationboth in fixed locations and in varied locations.

Accordingly, there is an unmet need for a portable light optimized fordurability and to provide a variety of illumination modes and mountingconfigurations. A full discussion of the features and advantages of thepresent invention is deferred to the following detailed description,which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In some implementations, the present disclosure provides a portablelantern light that features a plurality of lighting elements, aninternal power source, a mode selector for selecting among variousoperating modes, a luminosity selector for selecting among variouslighting element brightness levels, a magnet, a securement memberselectively positionable among multiple configurations, and aretractable stabilization assembly.

Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thefollowing specification taken in conjunction with the followingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord withthe present teachings, by way of example only, not by way of limitation.In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or similarelements.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a first embodiment of a portablelight, showing a stabilization assembly in a retracted position and asecurement member in a deployed position.

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the portable light source of FIG. 1,wherein the portable light is resting on a support surface with both thestabilization assembly and the securement member in a deployed position.

FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the portable light of FIG. 1,wherein both the stabilization assembly and the securement member are inthe retracted position.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the portable light of FIG. 1, wherein both thestabilization assembly and the securement member are in the retractedposition.

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the portable light of FIG. 1, wherein both thestabilization assembly and the securement member are in the retractedposition.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the portable light of FIG. 1, wherein both thestabilization assembly and the securement member are in the retractedposition.

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the portable light of FIG. 1, wherein boththe stabilization assembly and the securement member are in theretracted position.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the portable light of FIG. 1, whereinthe portable light is in a partially dissembled state.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the portable light of FIG. 1 takenalong the 9-9 line shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 9A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first end assembly ofthe portable light of FIG. 1 taken along the 9-9 line shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view with perspective treatment of theportable light shown in FIG. 1 taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view with perspective treatment of theportable light shown in FIG. 1 taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of the circuity in the portable light of FIG.1.

FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the portable light shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of a second embodiment of a portablelight, showing a securement assembly in a retracted position.

FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the portable light of FIG. 14,wherein the securement assembly is in the retracted position.

FIG. 16 is a front view of the portable light of FIG. 14, wherein thesecurement assembly is in the retracted position.

FIG. 17 is a rear view of the portable light of FIG. 14, wherein thesecurement assembly is in the retracted position.

FIG. 18 is a bottom view of the portable light of FIG. 14, wherein thesecurement assembly is in the retracted position.

FIG. 19 is a top view of the portable light of FIG. 14, wherein thesecurement assembly is in the retracted position.

FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of the portable light of FIG. 14,showing the securement assembly is in a deployed position.

FIG. 21 is a top view of the portable light of FIG. 14, wherein thesecurement assembly is in the retracted position, a mode selector in afirst position, and a single lighting element is in an illuminatingstate.

FIG. 22 is a top view of the portable light source of FIG. 14, whereinthe securement assembly is in the retracted position, a mode selector ina fourth position, and all four lighting elements are in an illuminatingstate.

FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of a third embodiment of a portablelight, showing a stabilization assembly in a retracted position and asecurement member in a retracted position.

FIG. 24 is a bottom perspective view of the portable light shown in FIG.23, showing the stabilization assembly in the retracted position and asecurement member in a deployed position.

FIG. 25 is a front view of the portable light source shown in FIG. 23,wherein the securement member is in a deployed position.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the power source for use with theportable light shown in embodiments 1-3.

FIG. 27 is a block diagram of the circuity in the power source and theportable light of embodiments 1-3 in a first direction.

FIG. 28 is a block diagram of the circuity in the power source and theportable light of embodiments 1-3 in a second direction.

While the invention will be described in connection with the preferredembodiments shown herein, it will be understood that it is not intendedto limit the invention to those embodiments. On the contrary, it isintended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, asmay be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as definedby the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While this disclosure includes a number of details and implementationsin many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinbe described in detail particular implementations with the understandingthat the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification ofthe principles of the disclosed methods and systems, and is not intendedto limit the broad aspects of the disclosed concepts to theimplementations illustrated.

As shown in the Figures and explained below, a portable light or lantern10 features a multitude of brightness or luminosity settings and adistinct operating modes, both independently selected by a user. Theportable light 10 can be carried or mounted using a plurality ofmounting configurations (e.g., on a flat support surface 44) in order toprovide flexible illumination solutions to the user. The multipleoperating modes and the multiple mounting configurations provide theportable light 10 with increased flexibility and greater utility, ascompared to conventional lanterns or flashlights.

With reference to the Figures, the potable light 10 includes: (i) aluminosity selector assembly 28, (ii) an operating mode selectorassembly 32, (iii) a plurality of lighting elements 100, (iv) a powersource 134 disposed between the lighting elements 100, and (v) andretractable stabilization assembly 192. As discussed in greater detailbelow, the luminosity selector assembly 28 and the mode selectorassembly 32 allow the user to independently change the operation modeand the brightness or lumen output level of the portable light 10. Theseassembles 28, 32 operate independent of each other, where the user: (i)selects at least one lighting element 100 to be illuminated using themode selector assembly 32 and (ii) moves the luminosity selectorassembly 28 from an “Off” position to an “On” position. Specifically,the luminosity selector assembly 28 allows the user to set thebrightness or lumen output level of the lighting element(s) 100, suchthat the luminosity selector assembly 28 functions as a dimmer for theportable light 10. This dimming function allows the user to select abrightness level or lumen output from the portable light 10, which isbetween a first predetermined minimum level and a second predeterminedmaximum level. The mode selector assembly 32 allows the user to selectthe operating mode of the portable light 10. In particular, the modeselector assembly 32 allows the user to select the number of lightingelements 100 to be illuminated. For example, the user may select one ofthe lighting elements 100 or a plurality of lighting elements 100 forillumination.

As generally shown in FIGS. 8-11, the portable light 10 also has a powersource 134 that is disposed within the intermediate section 22 and thusradially inward of the lighting elements 100. The power source 134 maybe a combination of removable non-rechargeable batteries 278 disposedwithin a battery cartridge 250. As discussed in greater detail below,the configuration of the power source 134 allows it to supply power tothe portable light 10 regardless of which direction the power source 134is inserted within the portable light 10.

The portable light 10 further has multiple mounting configurations foruse in different environments and under different conditions. Forexample, the user can move the securement member 30 to a deployedposition 214, as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, where upon the user canthen hang the portable light 10 via the deployed securement member 30 toan object or fixture (e.g., a hook) disposed above the portable light10. Second, the user may releasably attach the magnet 190 residingwithin the lower end 18 to a magnetic surface or object. Thus, theportable light 10 will be magnetically mounted, to a selected magneticsurface or object at any orientation (e.g., to a tool box or to a metalsurface of a vehicle). Third, the user may place the bottom surface 199of the portable light 10 on a surface support surface 44 and deploy aretractable stabilization assembly 192 (see FIG. 2). Fourth, the usermay manually carry the portable light 10 for portable illumination useas a flashlight or lantern between various locations.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-12, the portable light 10 has an elongatedconfiguration with a first end assembly 24 that is operably connected tothe first end 14 of the portable light 10. The first end assembly 24allows the user to change the operating mode and the brightness of theportable light 10 by changing the positons of the luminosity selectorassembly 28 and mode selector assembly 32. Referring to FIGS. 1-5, thefirst end assembly 24 includes: (i) a top or upper housing 26, (ii) theluminosity selector assembly 28, (iii) the securement member 30, (iv)the mode selector assembly 32, and (v) connector rings 34, 36. The upperhousing 26 has an end wall 38 that is inwardly recessed from an outerrim 40 to form a recess 42. An extent of the luminosity selectorassembly 28 is positioned within the recess 42. Referring to FIG. 9, theluminosity selector assembly 28 preferably does not extend beyond theouter rim 40, which helps protect the luminosity selector assembly 28from making contact with a support surface 44, if the portable light 10is dropped or knocked over by the user. In addition, this configurationallows the outer rim 40 to make contact with a support surface 44without interruption by the luminosity selector assembly 28, which inturn allows the portable light 10 to be stable, if the outer rim 40 isplaced in contact with the support surface 44.

As mentioned above, the luminosity selector assembly 28 functions as adimmer for the portable light 10. This dimming function allows the userto select a brightness level or lumen output from the lighting elements100, which is between a first predetermined minimum level (e.g., 20lumen) and a second predetermined maximum level (3,000 lumen). In theembodiment of the Figures, the luminosity selector assembly 28 is arotary dial 46 that includes: (i) a cap 48, (ii) a selector 50, (iii) ano-ring 52, and (iv) a luminosity printed circuit board (“PCB”) 54.Referring to FIGS. 9 and 13, the cap 48 includes a flange 56 and aprojection 58 that extends radially from the flange 56. The cap 48 isconfigured such that the projection 58 extends through a hole 60 formedin the end wall 38, while the flange 56 resides below or within the endwall 38. This configuration helps to ensure that when an upwardlydirected force that is applied to the cap 48, the cap 48 cannot beremoved from the portable light 10. The o-ring 52 is positioned betweenthe flange 56 and the end wall 38, which helps to ensure the smoothoperation of the rotary dial 46 along with protecting the internalelectronics from exterior moisture.

The cap 48 is operably coupled to the selector 50, which in turn isoperably coupled to the luminosity PCB 54. Thus, when the cap 48 isrotated by a user, the selector 50 is also rotated. This angularmovement of the cap 48 and the selector 50 changes the state of theluminosity PCB 54, which in turn changes the current that may be appliedto the lighting elements 100 during operation of the light 10. Thischange in current alters the lumen output of the lighting elements 100.For example, the rotary dial 46 may be rotated counter-clockwise untilit stops. In this “OFF” position, the luminosity PCB 54 applies zeroelectrical current to the lighting elements 100. As the rotary dial 46is rotated in a clockwise direction from this “OFF” position, theluminosity PCB 54 allows for the application of a greater amount ofelectrical current to the lighting elements 100. This in turn increasesthe possible lumen output of the lighting elements 100 (assuming themode selector assembly 32 is not in the “Off” position).

In some embodiments (see FIGS. 14 and 19) the rotary dial 46 may includedial grooves 61 or another type of textured surface to enhance a user'sgrip when rotating the rotary dial 46. In an alternative embodiment, theluminosity selector assembly 28 may have multiple predetermined lumenoutput levels. For example, the luminosity selector assembly 28 may beset to a first or “OFF” position, a second or “Low” position, a third or“Medium” position, and a fourth or “High” position. It should beunderstood that the luminosity selector assembly 28 may have othermechanical or electrical configurations, which may further its abilityto function as a dimmer for the portable light 10.

It is to be understood that the luminosity selector assembly 28 can bereplaced with an assembly that is configured to utilize one or morebuttons, switches, sliders, local sensors (e.g., motion, light, sound,heat, motion), or other types of electrical selection devices. In oneembodiment, the rotary dial 46 and its associated circuitry may bereplaced by a button and the necessary circuitry to allow a user toilluminate or turn “On” the portable light 10 upon depressing the buttonand to un-illuminate or turn “Off” the portable light 10 upon depressingthe button another time after the portable light 10 is in an illuminatedstate. In another alternative embodiment, the rotary dial 46 and itsassociated circuitry may be replaced by a button and the necessarycircuitry to allow a user to either: (i) press the button a first timeto illuminate or turn “On” the portable light 10, (ii) press and holdthe button to illuminate and adjust the brightness of the portable light10, or (iii) press the button another time after the portable light 10is illuminated to un-illuminate or turn “Off” the light 10.Additionally, the luminosity selector assembly 28 may be remotelylocated from the portable light 10. For example, the luminosity selectorassembly 28 may be located on a remote wireless device, such as theremote devices described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/812,852,filed on May 17, 2018, and which is fully incorporated herein byreference. Another example of a remote wireless device includes acellphone, laptop, RF remote control, or other devices that areconnected to the portable light 10 via the internet (e.g., wirelesscamera, motion sensor, light sensor, timer, etc.).

As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, a luminosity indicator 62 may bedisposed on the end wall 38 or the luminosity selector assembly 28. Theluminosity indicator 62 contains visual information including shapes,letters or numbers for apprising a user of information regarding anoperation of the luminosity selector assembly 28. In someimplementations, as shown exemplarily in FIG. 6, the luminosityindicator 62 includes the word “OFF” 64 indicating zero luminosity,along with a visual image indicating progressively increased luminosity66. In other embodiments, the luminosity indicator 62 may have multiplewords (e.g., “OFF”, “Low”, “Medium”, and “High”), may be made from areflective material, can be a light emitting diode, or a TFT display.

The upper housing 26 also contains components that help position andsecure the electrical components of the portable light 10 within thefirst end assembly 24. As best shown in FIGS. 1, 9 and 13, the upperhousing 26 also includes: (i) a notch 68, (ii) mode selector aperture70, (iii) a first set of internal threads 72, (iv) a second set ofinternal threads 74, (v) a first set of external threads 76, and (vi) aupper flange 78. The notch 68 receives an extent of an O-ring 80 that ispositioned between the upper housing 26 and a mode selector ring 82 ofthe mode selector assembly 32. This configuration helps maintain spacingbetween the mode selector ring 82 and the outer surface of the upperhousing 26 to ensure the smooth operation of the mode selector ring 82.The first set of internal threads 72 has a smaller internal diameterthan the second set of threads 74, wherein the first set of internalthreads 72 are configured to receive an extent of a luminosity PCB 54and a mode selector PCB 84. This configuration allows for quick assemblyof the portable light 10 and the replacement of the luminosity PCB 54 orthe mode selector PCB 84, if either one of these PCBs are damaged. Thefirst set of external threads 76 are configured to receive the internalthreads 75 of the connector rings 34, 36. As will be described ingreater detail below, the mode selector PCB 84 helps control which ofthe lighting elements 100 is illuminated.

The first end assembly 24 also includes a first spacer 86 and a secondspacer 88, which are located adjacent to the luminosity PCB 54 or themode selector PCB 84. These spacers 86, 88 allow clearance between: (i)moving parts contained within the first end assembly 24 and (ii) thecircuit components (e.g., capacitors, resistors, microprocessor, andetc.) that are operably coupled to the PCBs 54, 84. Specifically, thefirst and second spacers 86, 88 only extend partially around theperimeter of the mode selector PCB 84 to ensure that they do notinterfere with the moving parts of the first end assembly 24. The firstand second spacers 86, 88 also have projections 90 that align withrecesses that are formed in interior of the first end assembly 24. Theseprojection 90 help ensure the proper positioning of the PCBs 54, 84 andother components within the first end assembly 24.

The mode selector assembly 32 allows the user to select the operatingmode of the portable light 10. In particular, the mode selector assembly32 allows the user to select one of the lighting elements 100 forillumination or a plurality of lighting elements 100 for illumination.This selection is performed by angularly displacing the mode selector 32about the central axis A-A. Referring to FIGS. 9 and 13, the modeselector assembly 32 includes: (i) the mode selector ring 82, (ii) themode selector PCB 84, (iii) the mode selector aperture 70, (iv) a modeselector arm 92, (v) screw 94, (vi) a spring 96, and (vii) a ball 98.The mode selector ring 82 is slidingly coupled to the upper housing andcircumscribes a portion 102 of the upper housing 26. In particular, modeselector ring 82 is positioned between the upper flange 78 of the upperhousing 26 and the first connector ring 34. The mode selector ring 82 isconfigured to be angularly displaced relative to the upper housing 26.As shown in FIGS. 1-5, the mode selector ring 82 may have a textured orknurled (e.g., strait, angled, or crossed line) engaging surface 106 anda substantially flat, minor outer surface 104. The textured or knurledsurface 106 may be included to enhance a user's grip when rotating themode selector ring 82. It should be understood that that the textured orknurled surface 106 may be omitted (see FIGS. 23-25) or may be reducedin size. The minor outer surface 104 may contain a selection indicator108 to indicate which illumination mode has been selected.

During operation, the user aligns the selection indicator 108 with anillumination mode indicia 110 that is disposed on the lateral face ofthe upper flange 78. Specifically, the mode indicia 110 may include“OFF” 110 a, “I” 110 b, “II” 110 c, “III” 110 d, and “IV” 110 e. Theupper flange 78 does not move relative to the mode selector ring 82.Thus, the application of an angularly force on the mode selector ring 82relative to the upper flange 78 results in a movement of the selectionindicator 108 relative to the mode indicia 110. It should be noted thatthe mode selector ring 82 may only need to be angularly displacedapproximately 100 degrees to move the mode selector ring 82 from a firstor “OFF” position to a final or all on position. Nevertheless, it shouldbe understood that other degrees of angularly displacement (e.g.,5degrees to 360 degrees) between the operational modes may be chosen.

The mode selector ring 82 also has a substantially smooth inner surface111 with a recess 112 formed therein. The mode selector arm 92 iscoupled to the center of the mode selector PCB 84 by the screw 94 and isconfigured to extend through the mode selector aperture 70 and into anextent of the recess 112 that is formed within the inner surface 111 ofthe mode selector ring 82. A spring 96 and a ball 98 are configured tobe positioned between the mode selector arm 92 and the mode selector PCB84. The ball 98 is configured to be positioned within dimples 114 formedin the mode selector PCB 84. During operation, the user may apply anangular force on the mode selector ring 82 to move the selectionindicator 108 from the mode indicia 110 a. This clockwise angular forceapplies pressure on the ball 98, such that the ball 98 applies adownward pressure on the spring 96, which allows the ball 98 to move outof a dimple 114a formed in the mode selector PCB 84. The ball 98 thenslides radially along the mode selector PCB 84, while staying in contacttherewith. Once the user has moved the mode selector ring 82 to thepoint that the selection indicator 108 is aligned with the mode indicia110 b, the ball 98 is forced by the spring 96 into a different dimple114 b formed in the mode selector PCB 84. Once the ball 98 makes contactwith the different dimple 114, operational mode of the portable light 10is altered. Additional details about the operation of the mode selectorassembly 32 are discussed in greater detail below.

It is to be understood that the mode selector assembly 32 can bereplaced with an assembly that is configured to utilize one or morebuttons, switches, sliders, local sensors (e.g., motion, light, sound,heat, motion), or other types of electrical selection devices. In oneembodiment, the mode selector ring 82 and its associated circuitry maybe replaced by a button and the necessary circuitry to allow a user toselect the desired operational mode by depressing the button apredetermined number of times. For example, the user: (i) may depressthe button one time to turn “On” on lighting element 100, (ii) maydepress the button two time to turn “On” on two of the lighting element100, or (iii) may depress the button five time to turn “Off” on lightingelement 100. Additionally, the luminosity selector assembly 28 may beremotely located from the portable light 10. For example, the luminosityselector assembly 28 may be located on a remote wireless device, such asthe remote devices described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/812,852, filed on May 17, 2018, and which is fully incorporatedherein by reference. Another example of a remote wireless deviceincludes a cellphone, laptop, RF remote control, or other devices thatare connected to the portable light 10 via the internet (e.g., wirelesscamera, motion sensor, light sensor, timer, etc.).

As best shown in FIG. 9, the lighting element holder 118 electricallycouples the lighting elements 100 to a first power source PCB 124. Thelighting element holder 118 includes substantially straight sections 120that are connected to one another by angled projections 122. The angledprojections 122 extent both above and below the substantially straightsections 120. The top extend of the angled projections 122 define areceiver, which receives an extent of a positioning ring 116. Thisconfiguration centers the lighting element holder 118 in the middle ofthe portable light 10. The bottom extent of the angled projections 122operably couple the first power source PCB 124 to the lighting elements100 by applying pressure to an extent of the outer surface of thelighting elements 100. The coupling of the first power source PCB 124and the lighting elements will be described in greater detail below.

The first power source PCB 124 is configured to electrically couple thelighting elements 100 with: (i) the power source 134, (ii) the firstpower source PCB 124, (iii) the mode selector PCB 84, (iv) theluminosity PCB 54, and (v) other circuitry components. Referring to FIG.9, the first power source PCB 124 includes a top surface 126 and abottom surface 128. The top surface 126 includes surface mountedcircuitry, such as resisters, capacitors, or etc. The bottom surface 128of the first power source PCB 124 includes a power source contact thatis made from a conducting material and is configured to make contactwith a power source 134. In particular, the power source contactincludes two separate contacts that are coplanar within one another,wherein the first contact 123 is a small circular disk located in thecenter of the portable light 10 and the second contact 125 is a ringthat encircles the first contact 123. As will be discussed in greaterdetail below, the first contact 123 is configured to receive a positivecharge from the power source 134, while the second contact 125 isconfigured to receive a negative charge from the power source 134. Itshould be understood that in an alternative embodiment the first contact123 may receive a negative charge from the power source 134, while thesecond contact 125 may receive a positive charge from the power source134. In addition, the configuration of the contacts that form the powersource contact may include other configurations, such as contacts thatare positioned side by side or that are positioned on different heightswhen compared to one another.

The first power source PCB 124 also includes projections 132 and PCBlighting contacts 130 that are disposed on the sides of the first powersource PCB 124. The projections 132 extend radially outward from thefirst power source PCB 124 and include apertures 138 formedtherethrough. The apertures 138 are configured to receive an extent ofthe intermediate section 22 of the portable light 10. The PCB lightingcontacts 130 are formed between the projections 132. This configurationof projections 132 and apertures 138 helps ensure that the PCB lightingcontacts 130 are properly aligned with intermediate section 22.Specifically, the lighting elements 100 have lighting element contacts129 that are disposed on the rear surface 136 of lighting elements 100.When the portable light 10 is assembled, the lighting element contacts129 are positioned adjacent to the PCB lighting contacts 130. Thepositional relationship between the lighting element contacts 129 andthe PCB lighting contacts 130 is maintained by an inward directed forcethat is applied to the outer surface of the lighting elements 100 by thelighting element holder 118. It should be understood that other methods,such as the soldering of wires to each of the contacts, may be used tooperably couple the lighting elements 100 to the first power source PCB124.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 9-11, and 13, the intermediate section 22 of theportable light 10 includes a middle or intermediate housing 140 and oneor more lighting elements 100. The intermediate housing 140 extendsbetween the first end assembly 24 and a second end assembly 142. Theintermediate housing 140 includes: (i) a central body 144 that has afirst end 146 and a second end 148, (ii) a plurality of external ribs150 that extend both radially from the central body 144 andlongitudinally along a length L_(CB) of the central body 144, (iii) aplurality of channels 158 that extend laterally between a pair of theribs 150 and longitudinally along a length L_(CB) of the central body144, (iv) a set of projections 151 that extend from a first end 146 ofthe central body 144, and (v) a set of recessed sections 152 that arepositioned proximate to the second end 148 of the central body 144.Preferably, the projections 151 are angularly aligned with the ribs 150(see FIG. 13), such that a projection 151 extends longitudinally from arib 150. The central body 144 has an elongated substantially cylindricalconfiguration, where the length L_(CB) of the central body 144 (see FIG.9) substantially exceeds the width of the central body 144. It should beunderstood that in other embodiments, the central body 144 may have analternative configuration, such as a triangular prism, a rectangularprism, a cube, a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, octagonal prism,sphere, a cone, a tetrahedron, a cuboid, a dodecahedron, a icosahedron,a torus, a octahedron, a ellipsoid, or any other similar shape

The central body 144 is configured to be operably coupled to the firstend assembly 24 and the second end assembly 142. Specifically, exteriorthreads 154 that are formed in the projections 151 of the central body144 are configured to be received by the second set of internal threads74 formed in the upper housing 26; thereby, operably coupling the firstend assembly 24 to the intermediate housing 140. The exterior threads196 that are formed in the recessed sections 152 of the central body 144are configured to be received by a set of internal threads 194 formed ina base connector 184; thereby, operably coupling the second end assembly142 to the intermediate housing 140.

A receiver 153 is formed within the central body 144 and is configuredto receive at least a substantial extent of the power source 134, andpreferably the entirety of the power source 134. In the embodiment ofthe Figures, including FIGS. 9 and 10, the power source 134 iscompletely contained within the receiver 153, wherein the power source134 is radially inward from: (i) the central body 144, (ii) theplurality of external ribs 150, (iii) a plurality of channels that areformed between the ribs 150, and (iv) the lighting elements 100. Inother words, the receiver 153 is configured to surround the power source134, which in turn positions the power source 134 substantially in thecenter of the portable light 10.

The plurality of external ribs 150 extend radially outward from thecentral body 144 and longitudinally along a length L_(CB) of the centralbody 144. As shown in FIG. 10, the central body 144 has both an innerdiameter and an outer diameter that are less than an outer diameterdefined by an outer surface 176 of the plurality of ribs 150. Each rib150 includes two lateral projections 160 that extend in opposite lateraldirections from one another, which provides the rib 150 with a “T-shape”in cross section. Like the ribs 150, the lateral projections 160 alsoextend longitudinally along a length L_(CB) of the central body 144. Thelateral projections 160 form a recess 161 on each side of the rib 150,that as discussed below is configured to receive an extent of the lens168. In one embodiment (see FIGS. 10-11), the ribs 150 may be evenlyspaced a distance apart circumferentially around the central body 144.Accordingly, this configuration alternates between ribs 150 and lenses168 to provide a portable light 10 that can radiate lightomni-directionally or 360 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the ribs150 may not be evenly spaced around the central body 144.

The area between each pair of ribs 150 forms a channel 158. Accordingly,each channel 158 extends longitudinally along the central body 144.These channels 158 can have an arced or curvilinear configuration, asshown in FIGS. 10 and 11. Alternatively, the channels 158 may besubstantially flat, as shown in FIG. 13. Each channel 158 is configuredto receive one of the lighting elements 100. This configuration allowsfor the lighting elements 100 to be positioned radially outward of thecentral axis A-A, while extending longitudinally along the housing 140in a direction that is parallel to, or substantially parallel, to thecentral axis A-A. This in turn allows light that is emitted from the oneor more lighting elements 100 to primarily radiate in a direction thatis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the housing 140 and alongitudinal axis of the power source 134. In other words, the lightthat is emitted from the one or more lighting elements 100 is notconfigured to emit light that is primarily parallel with thelongitudinal axis of housing 140 or the longitudinal axis of powersource 134.

As mentioned above, each channel 158 is configured to receive one of thelighting elements 100. Accordingly, the lighting elements 100 areconfigured to extend longitudinally along the central body 144. As shownin FIGS. 9 and 13, the lighting elements 100 extend across almost theentire length of the power source 134. In other words, the lightingelements 100 have a length that is nearly (e.g., 90% of the length) aslong as the length of the power supply 134. Also, as shown in FIGS. 9and 13, the lighting elements 100 have a length that is greater than thecentral body 144. This configuration facilitates the retention of thelighting elements 100 within the portable light 10.

Each lighting elements 100 has a lighting element PCB 162 and an emitterassembly 164. The lighting element PCB 162 is disposed radially inwardfrom the emitter assembly 164 and the lens 168 and is configured toreside within the channels 158. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 13, the lightingelement PCB 162 has a longer configuration then the emitter assembly 164and the lens 168, which allows the lighting element PCB 162 to extendinto an extent of the first and second assemblies 24, 142 and allows theemitter assembly 164 to reside outside of the first and secondassemblies 24, 142. This configuration facilitates the operable couplingof the power source 134 and the emitter assembly 164. Accordingly, thelighting element PCB 162 extends longitudinally along the central body144.

As mentioned above, the lighting elements 100 have lighting elementcontacts 129 and a rear surface 136. The specific structure of thelighting elements 100 that contain these structures is the lightingelement PCB 162. Thus, the lighting element PCB 162 is configured to beoperably couple to the first power source PCB 124. The emitter assembly164 is also configured to be operably coupled to the emitter assembly164. Accordingly, the lighting element PCB 162 allows current to flowfrom the power source 134 to the emitter assembly 164 when the portablelight 10 is in the “On” position.

The emitter assembly 164 is disposed on the outer surface of thelighting element PCB 162, while being positioned radially inward fromthe lens 168. Each emitter assembly 164 may be composed of between 10and 200 individual emitters 165, preferably between 15 and 150individual emitters 165, and most preferably between 50 and 100individual emitters 165. Every individual emitter 165, which is a partof the emitter assembly 164, are configured to illuminate when power isapplied to the emitter assembly 164 by the lighting element PCB 162.Each emitter assembly 164 may produce between 0 and 1000 lumen,preferably between 0 and 750, and most preferably between 0 and 500.Accordingly, a portable light 10 that has four light emitter assembles164 may produce between 0 and 4000 lumen, preferably between 0 and 3000,and most preferably between 0 and 2000. It should be understood that isother embodiments every individual emitter 165 contained within theemitter assembly 164 may not be configured to illuminate when power isapplied to the emitter assembly 164. For example, a user may be able toselect the desired individual emitters 165 that the user wantsilluminated, while keeping other individual emitters 165 in theunilluminated.

As shown in FIGS. 9-11, the portable light 10 does not include asecondary optic nor does it include a reflector. Accordingly,substantially all of the light that is emitted from the emitter assembly164 passes directly from the emitter assembly 164, through the lens 168,and to the surrounding environment. This configuration may be desired,as substantially no light is lost due to material absorptions outside ofthe lens 168. Further, this configuration allows for a uniform and widedistribution of light. This configuration may be accomplished by using aChip on Board (“COB”) LED or surface-mount device LED. In thisconfiguration there is no secondary optic and the lens 168, which actsas the primary optic, can be configured to overlay multiple individuallight emitters 165 that are a part of the emitter assembly 164.Specifically, if a COB LED is used as the emitter assembly 164, then thelens 168 may overlay at least 20 individual light emitters 165 andpreferably all of the individual light emitters 165 (e.g., 60 individuallight emitters).

In other embodiments, a secondary optic or a reflector may be used. Forexample, if a standard LED is selected as the emitter, the portablelight 10 may have a secondary optic. In this configuration, the primaryoptic for the standard LED is the optic that surrounds the LED, whilethe secondary optic is the lens 168. This secondary optic may beconfigured to protect the standard LEDs from the surrounding environmentand protects the user from contacting the hot outer surface of theprimary optics after the LEDs. Alternatively, the portable light 10 mayinclude a reflector that is positioned between the edges of the emitterassembly 164 and the ribs 150. This reflector may help focus the lightthat is emitted from the emitter assembly 164 in a specific direction toachieve a desired light distribution. In a further alternative, theemitter assembly 164 may be positioned such that it is facing inward,towards the center of the portable light 10, and the reflector maydirect light from the emitter assembly 164 out through the lens 168.This configuration may provide a softer lighting effect, as no directlight that is emitted from the emitter assembly 164 can exit theportable light 10 without being reflected. It should be understood thatany combination of these alternative embodiments may be combined in theportable light 10. For example, the elongated light source may have: i)lighting element 100 that has a recessed emitter assembly 164, whichincludes reflectors that extends from the outer edges of the recessedemitter assembly 164 to the outer edges of the ribs 150, and ii)lighting elements 100 that are positioned on either side of the firstlighting element 100 that do not have a reflector or a secondary optic.

The lens 168 is positioned radially outward from the lighting elementPCB 162 and the emitter assembly 164 and functions as a primary opticfor the lighting element 100. The lens 168 has an inner surface 172 andan outer surface 174, where the outer surface 174 is configured to beradially aligned with an outer surface 176 of the ribs 150. Thisconfiguration provides a substantially smooth outer surface of theportable light 10. The lens 168 includes one or more lens tabs orprojections 170, which are dimensioned to be received by the recess 161to secure the peripheral edges of the lens 168 under the lateralprojections 160 of the ribs 150. The lens 168 serves to physicallyprotect the lighting element PCB 162 and the emitter assembly 164, whileallowing at least a substantial extent or entirety of the lightgenerated by the emitter assembly 164 to pass through the lens 168. Asshown in FIG. 10, the central body 144 has both an inner diameter and anouter diameter that are less than an outer diameter defined by an outersurface 174 of the plurality of lenses 168. The outer surface 174 ofeach lens 168 has a curvilinear configuration and the outer surface 176of each rib 150 has a curvilinear configuration, wherein these outersurfaces 174, 176 are substantially flush with each other. Also, theouter surfaces 174, 176 combine to provide a substantially smooth outercurvilinear surface for the central body 144 that is devoid ofappreciable gaps or ridges, which helps the user to easily grasp thecentral body 144 for securement of the light 10 and improves theaesthetic appearance of the light 10.

Depending on the type of selected emitter assembly 164 and theconfiguration of the channels 158, the inner surface 172 of the lens 168may be in contact with an outer surface of the emitter assembly 164 (seeFIGS. 10-11) or there may be an air gap 166 that is positioned betweenthe outer surface of the emitter assembly 164 and the inner surface 172of the lens 168. This air gap 166 may be filled with standard air, aninert gas, or a material that changes the reflective properties of theemitter assembly 164 (e.g., fused quartz or fluorite). In an alternativeembodiment, the lens 168 may be omitted, its configuration may bechanged, or there may be multiple lenses. For example, lens 168 may beomitted if the emitter assembly 164 that is chosen already has aprotective cover.

In some implementations, the intermediate section 22 includes fourlighting elements 100 a, 100 b, 100 c, and 100 d that are positionedradially around the housing 140 and the power source 134. The fourlighting elements 100 a, 100 b, 100 c, and 100 d may be evenly spacedradially around the exterior of the intermediate section 22. Thisconfiguration allows for each lighting element 100 to project light in a90 degree radial pattern around the portable light 10. Accordingly, whentwo lighting elements 100 are illuminated, the portable light projectslight in a 180 degree pattern around the portable light 10. Similarly,when all four lighting elements 100 are illuminated, light is projectedin a 360 degree pattern around the portable light 10. This configurationpositioned the power source 134 between lighting elements 100 a and 100c. Likewise, the power source 134 is also positioned between lightingelements 100 b and 100 d. Specifically, the power source 134 is centeredbetween lighting elements 100 a and 100 c. Likewise, the power source134 is centered between lighting elements 100 b and 100 d. Accordingly,the lighting elements 100 are configured to project light in a 360degree pattern around the power source 134.

It should be understood that the lighting elements may 100 a, 100 b, 100c, and 100 d not be evenly spaced around the exterior of theintermediate section 22. For example, it may be beneficial to place twolighting elements abutting one another to provide a larger quantity offocused light in one area. Additionally, it should be understood thatmore or less than four lighting elements 100 may be included in theintermediate section 22. For example, the intermediate section 22 mayinclude one lighting element 100 or ten lighting elements 100 thatextend the entire length of the intermediate section 22. Specifically,one lighting element 100 may be utilized that encircles the entirecentral body 144. Further, the other configurations of lighting elements100 are contemplated herein. For example, the intermediate section 22may include eight lighting elements 100, where each lighting element 100does not extend the entire length of the intermediate section 22.Instead, each lighting elements 100 only extends from the edge of theintermediate section 22 to the middle of the intermediate section 22. Itshould be understood that any combination of the above embodiments iscontemplated by this disclosure.

The power source 134 is configured to be positioned within the receiver153 formed within the central body 144. The power source 134 provideselectrical power to the portable light 10. Referring to FIGS. 8-10 and26-28, the power source 134 may be a combination of removablenon-rechargeable batteries 278 disposed within a battery cartridge 250.The battery cartridge 250 includes: (i) a first end cap 252, (ii) asecond end cap 254, (iii) a first plurality of end cap contacts 256,(iv) a second plurality of end cap contacts 258, (v) a first batterycartridge PCB 260, (vi) a second battery cartridge PCB 262, a connectingwire 264, (vii) a plurality of ribs 265. The first plurality of end capcontacts 256 has three individual end cap contacts 266, 268, and 270,while second plurality of end cap contacts 258 also has three individualend cap contacts 272, 274, and 276. The first plurality of end capcontacts 256 extends through the first end cap 252 and are configured tooperably couple the non-rechargeable batteries 278 disposed within abattery cartridge 250 to the first power source PCB 124, when the powersource 134 is disposed within the portable light 10. The secondplurality of end cap contacts 258 extends through the second end cap 254and are configured to operably couple the non-rechargeable batteries 278disposed within a battery cartridge 250 to a second power source PCB178, when the power source 134 is disposed within the portable light 10.

The plurality of ribs 265 that are formed in the battery cartridge 250may include three elongated ribs that connect the first end cap 252 tothe second end cap 254. These elongated ribs 265 hold the removablenon-rechargeable batteries 278 (e.g., 9 AA batteries) within the batterycartridge 250. To facilitate the holding of the batteries 278 within thebattery cartridge 250, the ribs 265 may have projections that areconfigured to extend around a portion of the batteries 278, when thebatteries 278 are placed within the battery cartridge 250. It should beunderstood that different configurations of a battery cartridge 250 maybe implemented, such that additional (e.g., 12 or 15 total batteries) orfewer (e.g., 1-9 total batteries) batteries 278 are used or larger(e.g., C or D) or smaller (e.g., AAAA or AAA) battery sizes.

Positioned between the elongated ribs 265 and the end caps 252, 254 arethe first and second battery cartridge PCBs 260, 262, respectively. Thefirst battery cartridge PCB 260 includes a plurality of contacts 280disposed on an inner surface and a plurality of contacts 282 disposed onan outer surface. The inner surface contacts 280 are configured to makecontact with the positive charged end of the batteries 278, while theouter surface contacts 282 are configured to make contact with the firstplurality of end cap contacts 256. The first battery cartridge PCB 260electrically couples together all of the inner surface contacts 280 withend cap contact 262. This enables the positive charge from all of theremovable non-rechargeable batteries 278 to be connected to the firstcontact 123 on the first power source PCB 124, when the power source 134is positioned within the portable light 10. The first battery cartridgePCB 260 electrically couples together the outer surface contacts 282that are electrically connected to end cap contacts 260 and 264.

The second battery cartridge PCB 262 includes a plurality of contacts284 disposed on an inner surface and a plurality of contacts 286disposed on an outer surface. The inner surface contacts 284 areconfigured to make contact with the negative charged end of thebatteries 278, while the outer surface contacts 286 are configured tomake contact with the second plurality of end cap contacts 258. Thesecond battery cartridge PCB 262 electrically couples together all ofthe inner surface contacts 284 with end cap contacts 266 and 270. Thisenables the negative charge from all of the removable non-rechargeablebatteries 278 to be connected to the second power source PCB 178, whenthe power source 134 is disposed within the portable light 10. Theconnecting wire 264 extends from the first battery cartridge PCB 260 tothe second battery cartridge PCB 262 and electrically couples end capcontacts 260 and 264 with contact 268.

Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, the configuration of the power source 134allows it to supply power to the portable light 10 regardless of whichdirection the power source 134 is inserted within the portable light 10.In other words, the portable light 10 will work when first end cap 252is placed adjacent to the first power source PCB 124 or when the firstend cap 252 is placed adjacent to the second power source PCB 178. Thefollowing describes how current flows through the portable light 10,when the first end cap 252 is placed adjacent to the first power sourcePCB 124 (see FIG. 27). The positive current flows from the removablenon-rechargeable batteries 278 to all of the inner surface contacts 280on the first battery cartridge PCB 260. Next, the current flows from theinner surface contacts 280 to the outer surface contact 282 thatcorrespond to end cap contact 268. Next, current flows from the outersurface contact 282 that correspond to end cap contact 268 to end capcontact 268. Next, current flows from end cap contact 268 to the firstcontact 123 associated with the first power source PCB 124. Next, thecurrent flows from the first contact 123 associated with the first powersource PCB 124 to the circuitry 499 contained within the portable light10, including the lighting elements 100. Next, the current flows fromthe circuitry 499 contained within the portable light 10 to the secondcontact 125 associated with the first power source PCB 124. Next, thecurrent flows from second contact 125 associated with the first powersource PCB 124 to end cap contacts 266 and 270. Next, the current flowsfrom the end cap contacts 266 and 270 to outer surface contacts 282 thatare associated with end cap contacts 266 and 270. Next, the currentflows from the outer surface contacts that are associated with end capcontacts 266 and 270 to the connecting wire 264. Next, the current flowsfrom the first end of the connecting wire 264 to the second end of theconnecting wire 264. Next, the current flows from the second end of theconnecting wire 264 to the outer surface contact 286 that is associatedwith end cap contact 274. Next, the current flows from outer surface 286contact that is associated with end cap contact 274 to end cap contact274. Next, the current flows from the end cap contact 274 to the secondpower source PCB 178. Next, the current flows from the second powersource PCB 178 to the end cap contacts 272 and 276. Next, the currentflows from the end cap contacts 272 and 276 to the outer surfacecontacts 286 of the second battery cartridge PCB 262 to all of the innersurface contact 284. Finally, the current flows from the inner surfacecontacts 284 to the negative charged ends of the batteries 278.

Alternatively, the following describes how current flows through theportable light 10, when the second end cap 254 is placed adjacent to thefirst power source PCB 124 (see FIG. 28). The negative current flowsfrom the removable non-rechargeable batteries 278 to all of the innersurface contacts 284 on the second battery cartridge PCB 262. Next, thecurrent flows from the inner surface contacts 284 to the outer surfacecontact 286 that correspond to end cap contacts 272 and 276. Next,current flows from the outer surface contacts 286 that correspond to endcap contacts 272 and 276 to end cap contacts 272 and 276. Next, currentflows from end cap contacts 272 and 276 to the second contact 125associated with the first power source PCB 124. Next, the current flowsfrom the second contact 125 associated with the first power source PCB124 through the circuitry 499 contained within the portable light 10,including the lighting elements 100. Next, the current flows from thecircuitry 499 contained within the portable light 10 to the firstcontact 123 associated with the first power source PCB 124. Next, thecurrent flows from first contact 123 associated with the first powersource PCB 124 to end cap contact 274. Next, the current flows from theend cap contact 274 to outer surface contacts 286 that is associatedwith end cap contact 274. Next, the current flows from the outer surfacecontacts 286 that is associated with end cap contact 274 to theconnecting wire 264. Next, the current flows from the first end of theconnecting wire 264 to the second end of the connecting wire 264. Next,the current flows from the second end of the connecting wire 264 to theouter surface contact 282 that is associated with end cap contacts 266and 270. Next, the current flows from the end cap contacts 266 and 270to the second power source PCB 178. Next, the current flows from thesecond power source PCB 178 to the end cap contact 268. Next, thecurrent flows from the end cap contact 268 to outer surface contact 282that is associated with end cap contact 268. Next, the current flowsfrom the outer surface contact 282 that is associated with end capcontact 268 to all of the inner surface contacts 280. Finally, thepositive current flows from the inner surface contacts 280 to thepositive charged ends of the batteries 278. Accordingly, the powersource 134 can be operably connected to the portable light 10 in eitherdirection.

It should be understood that instead of being a combination of removablenon-rechargeable batteries 278 disposed within a battery cartridge 250,the power source 134 may be a removable non-rechargeable battery, aremovable rechargeable battery, a combination of removable rechargeablebatteries, a combination of removable rechargeable batteries disposedwithin a battery cartridge 250, a non-removable rechargeable battery, acombination of non-removable rechargeable batteries disposed within abattery cartridge 250, a DC power supply that is configured to connectto a 12 volt car battery, a DC power supply that is configured toconnect to a 110 volt alternative current outlet, or any other type ofpower supply that is known to a person of skill in the art.

The second end assembly 142 is operably connected to the second end 18of the portable light 10. The second end assembly 142 allows theportable light to be mounted in a multitude of different positions(e.g., one a magnetic support surface 44, with the retractablestabilization assembly 192 in a retracted state 210, or with theretractable stabilization assembly 192 in a deployed state 212). Thesecond end assembly 142 includes: (i) a connector ring 182, (ii) baseconnector 184, (iii) a bottom housing 186, and (vi) retractablestabilization assembly 192. The base connector 184 has a first set ofinternal threads 194 and two sets of external threads 196, 198. Thefirst set of internal threads 194 are configured to engage the set ofthreads 196 that are positioned within the set of recessed sections 152that are positioned proximate to the second end 148 of the central body144. This configuration secures the lighting elements 100 within thechannels 158 that are formed within the intermediate housing 140. Whilethe first set of external threads 196 are configured to engage with thethreads on the connector ring 182, the second set of external threads198 are configured to operably engage with a set of internal threads 202positioned within the bottom housing 186. The threads 198, 202 enable auser to remove the bottom housing 186 from the intermediate housing 140.This in turn permits a user to replace the power source 134 or coupleadditional accessories to the portable light 10. It should be understoodthat the bottom housing 186 may be coupled to the intermediate housing140 using other methods, such as quarter turn connector, a bayonetconnector, a pressure fit connector, or other connectors known to one ofskill in the art.

The bottom housing 186 includes: (i) the second power source PCB 178,(ii) a magnet receiver 188, and (iii) a magnet 190. The bottom housing186 may have a textured or knurled (e.g., strait, angled, or crossedline) outer surface 187. The textured or knurled surface 187 may beincluded to enhance a user's grip when rotating the bottom housing 186.It should be understood that the textured or knurled surface 187 may beomitted (see FIGS. 23-25) or may be reduced in size. As discussed abovethe second power source PCB 178 is configured to make contact with thepower source 134 to complete the electrical circuit. The magnet receiver188 extends from the bottom surface 199 of the bottom housing 186. Thisconfiguration places the magnet 190 a safe distance away from the secondpower source PCB 178 to ensure that the magnet does not interfere withthe electrical circuitry of the portable light 10. The magnet 190 isdisposed within the magnet receive 188 and is substantially flush, or ina common plane, with the bottom surface 199 of the bottom housing 186.This configuration ensure places the largest surface area of the magnet190 in contact with the support surface 44. The strength of the magnetis sufficient to hold the portable light 10 in a horizontal positionfrom a vertical support surface 44. Specifically, the strength of themagnet is between 300 and 30 millitesla, preferably between 200 and 75millitesla, and most preferably between 150 and 100 millitesla.Alternatively, the magnet 190 may be weaker, substantially stronger, ormay be electromagnetically controlled by a battery.

The retractable stabilization assembly 192 is shown FIGS. 1-5, 7-9, 11,13, and 23-25. In some implementations, as best shown in FIGS. 2, 3,7-9, the retractable stabilization assembly 192 includes one or morefeet 204. The feet 204 are individually retractable and can beselectively positioned into an extended position 212, as exemplarilyshown in FIGS. 2 and 8, and can also be selectively positioned into aretracted position 210 as exemplarily shown in FIGS. 1, 3-5, and 7. Whenthe feet 204 are in the retracted position 210, the outer surface of thefeet 204 do not extend outside the radius of the outer surface of theribs 150. When the feet are in the extend position 212, the outersurface of the feet 204 extend outside the radius of the ribs 150. Thisconfiguration enables the portable light 10 to more stably stand on thesupport surface 44, as shown in FIG. 2.

The bottom housing 186 includes a recess 206 that is formed, at leastpartially by, the magnet receiver 188. The feet 204, or at least aportion of the feet 204, form a substantially flat and flush surface, ora common plane, with the bottom surface 199 of the bottom housing 186.The feet 204 can also form a common plane with a magnet 190.Additionally, the feet 204, or at least a portion of the feet, can bedisposed within the recess 206, when the feet 204 are disposed in theretracted position 210. This configuration is facilitated by thesubstantially arcuate shape of the feet 204. Specifically, when the feet204 are disposed in the retracted position 210, the feet 204 can formsubstantially a circle, and thus conform to the generally cylindricalshape of the portable light 10.

Each of the one or more feet 204 can be hingedly attached to the bottomhousing 186 of the portable light 10 at a pivot point 208, which can beformed a fastener 209. The feet 204 can be biased towards one or more ofthe extended position 212 and the retracted position 210. The feet 204can also lock, through a releasable locking system (not shown) in one ormore of the extended position 212 and the retracted position 210 by anymechanical fastening system commonly known to those skilled in the art.

Referring to FIGS. 1-12, the securement member 30 can support, suspendand/or brace the portable light 10 during operation, storage and/ortransportation. The first end 14 includes a securement member 30, whichis pivotally attached to the first end 14. Specifically, the securementmember 30 is coupled to the upper housing 26 at a pivot point 31, whichis disposed on the outer surface of the upper flange 78. Thisconfiguration allows the securement member 30 to be pivotal attached tothe first end 14 and can selectively rotate among a plurality oforientations with respect to the first end 14.

The securement member 30 may have a substantially arcuate shape, but itis to be understood that other shapes are within the scope of thisdisclosure. The securement member 30 may be selectively disposed in afirst, or stowed, position 214, as exemplarily shown in FIGS. 3-6, 8-9,and 11. In the first position 214, the securement member 30 ispositioned between the upper edge of the mode selector ring 82 and theouter rim 40. Thus, the securement member 30 is positioned adjacent tothe outer surface of the upper flange 78. In this first position 214,the securement member 30 lies in a plane substantially parallel with thefirst end wall 38 and the outer rim 40.

The securement member 30 may also be selectively disposed in a second,or deployed, position 216, as exemplarily shown in FIGS. 1-2. In thesecond position 216, the securement member 30 is positioned above theouter rim 40. In this second position 216, the securement member 30 maybe positioned at any angle that places it above the outer rim 40 and isfully deployed when securement member 30 is positioned substantiallyperpendicular to the outer rim 40. It should be understood that thesecurement member 30 may also have a releasable locking system (notshown), which may secure the securement member 30 in one or morepositions (e.g., first position 214 or the second position 216).

FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram of the components that are contained withinthe portable light 10. In particular, the circuit components shown inFIG. 12 include: i) switches 218-226 that correspond to mode indicia 110a-110 e, ii) switch 228 that corresponds to the luminosity selectorassembly 28, iii) the power source 134, iv) lighting elements 100 a-100d, v) resistors and capacitors that are disposed either the luminosityPCB 54, the mode selector PCB 84, or the first power source PCB 124,which include R5-R8, R12, R13, R15, C1-C3, and vi) microcontroller 230.In this configuration, the microcontroller 230 accepts inputs from theswitches 218-228 and power from the power source 134 and outputs controlsignals to the lighting elements 100 a-110 d. The circuit elements thatare disposed on the either of the PCBs 54, 84, or 124 protect themicrocontroller from current spikes or electrical noise, act as anelectrical filter, or act as a dimming potentiometer for the luminosityselector assembly 28. Also, as shown in FIG. 12, each lighting element100 a-100 d includes: i) emitter assembly 164, ii) two resistors (e.g.,R10 and R14), iii) and a transistor (e.g., Q4). Each of these circuitelements contained within the lighting elements 100 a-100 d are disposedon the lighting element PCB 162. It should be understood that othercircuit configuration or the placement of circuit elements on other PCBsis contemplated by this disclosure. Further, it is contemplated by thisdisclosure that other circuit elements may be included within theportable light 10, such as a wireless communication module, additionalmicrocontrollers, additional switches to control the lumen output or theselection of emitters 164, or any other circuity required to perform thefunctions described herein.

The below disclosure of the operation of portable light 10 applies inequal force to all embodiments (e.g., the first embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-13, the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 14-22, and the thirdembodiment shown in FIGS. 23-25) of the portable elongated lightsdescribed herein. Specifically, in operation, a user can: (i)selectively mount the portable light 10 in various ways, (ii) select theluminosity level of the lighting elements 100, and (iii) select whichlighting elements are illuminated 100. For example, the user can movethe securement member 30 to a deployed position 214, as best shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, where upon the user can then hang the portable light 10via the deployed securement member 30 to an object or fixture (e.g., ahook) disposed above the portable light 10. Second, the user mayreleasably attach the magnet 190 residing within the lower end 18 to amagnetic surface or object. Thus, the portable light 10 will bemagnetically mounted, to a selected magnetic surface or object at anyorientation (e.g., to a tool box or to a metal surface of a vehicle).Third, the user may place the bottom surface 199 of the portable light10 on a surface support surface 44 and deploy a retractablestabilization assembly 192 (see FIG. 2). Fourth, the user may manuallycarry the portable light 10 for portable illumination use as aflashlight or lantern between various locations.

The user also has a plurality of options regarding portable light 10luminosity levels. The luminosity selector assembly 28 may bemanipulated to cause the lighting elements 100 of the portable light 10to produce zero luminosity. Alternatively, the luminosity selectorassembly 28 may be manipulated to cause one or more of the lightingelements 100 to produce various degrees of light. While FIGS. 1-11,14-20, and 23-25 illustrate the lighting elements 100 as producing zerolight, FIGS. 21-22 show each of the lighting elements 100 as emittinglight, as indicated by light lines 232.

The user further has a plurality of options regarding portable light 10operational modes. The operational modes can be selected or changed bymanipulating the mode selector ring 82 relative to the mode indicia 110.In some implementations, as shown in the figures, the selectionindicator 108 on the mode selector ring 82 is rotated relative to themode indicia 110. The mode indicia 110 may include images or numerals,exemplarily shown as I, II, III and IV. When the selection indicator 108is arranged correspondingly to one of the mode indicia 110 (I, II, IIIand IV), the portable light 10 will operate in the operational modecorresponding to the selected mode indicia 110 (I, II, III and IV). Itis to be understood that more, fewer or alternate mode indicia 110 arewithin the scope of this disclosure.

Some of the operational modes are discussed below. In an “OFF”operational mode, the no lighting elements 100 are illuminate. Theportable light 10 can be set to this “OFF” operation mode in twodifferent way. A first way this “OFF” operational mode may be achievedis by the user placing the mode selector ring 82 in the “OFF” positionby aligning the selection indicator 108 with mode indicia 110 a. In thisconfiguration, it does not matter the setting of the luminosity selectorassembly 28 because there are no lighting elements 100 that are selectedfor illumination. A second way this “OFF” operational mode may beachieved is by the user placing the rotary dial 46 in the “OFF” position64. In this configuration, it does not matter the setting of the modeselector assembly 32 because there is no current being applied to any ofthe lighting elements 100.

In a first operational mode, the one of the lighting elements 100 isilluminate. For example, lighting element 100 a may be illuminated. Thissecond operation mode is achieved by both: i) rotating the luminosityselector ring 82 to align the selection indicator 108 with mode indicia110 b and ii) rotating the rotary dial 46 to command greater than zeroluminosity. If either one of these assemblies 28, 32 are positioned in adifferent location, then the portable light 10 will not be in a secondoperation mode. It should be understood that the user may then vary thelumen output of the illuminated lighting element (e.g., 100 a) bychanging the position of the rotary dial 46. For example, the user mayrotate the dial 46 clockwise to increase the lumen output or may rotatethe dial 46 counter-clockwise to decease the lumen output.

In a second operational mode, the two of the lighting elements 100 areilluminate. For example, lighting element 100 a and 100 b may beilluminated. This third operation mode is achieved by both: i) rotatingthe luminosity selector ring 82 to align the selection indicator 108with mode indicia 110 c and ii) rotating the rotary dial 46 to commandgreater than zero luminosity. If either one of these assemblies 28, 32are positioned in a different location, then the portable light 10 willnot be in a third operation mode. It should be understood that the usermay then vary the lumen output of the illuminated lighting elements(e.g., 100 a and 100 b) by changing the position of the rotary dial 46.

In a third operational mode, the three of the lighting elements 100 areilluminate. For example, lighting element 100 a, 100 b, and 100 c may beilluminated. This fourth operation mode is achieved by both: i) rotatingthe luminosity selector ring 82 to align the selection indicator 108with mode indicia 110 d and ii) rotating the rotary dial 46 to commandgreater than zero luminosity. If either one of these assemblies 28, 32are positioned in a different location, then the portable light 10 willnot be in a fourth operation mode. It should be understood that the usermay then vary the lumen output of the illuminated lighting elements(e.g., 100 a, 100 b, and 100 c) by changing the position of the rotarydial 46.

In a fourth operational mode, all four of the lighting elements 100 areilluminate. For example, lighting element 100 a, 100 b, 100 c, and 100 dmay be illuminated. This fourth operation mode is achieved by both: i)rotating the luminosity selector ring 82 to align the selectionindicator 108 with mode indicia 110 e and ii) rotating the rotary dial46 to command greater than zero luminosity. If either one of theseassemblies 28, 32 are positioned in a different location, then theportable light 10 will not be in a fifth operation mode. It should beunderstood that the user may then vary the lumen output of theilluminated lighting elements (e.g., 100 a, 100 b, 100 c, and 100 d) bychanging the position of the rotary dial 46.

In some embodiments, adjacent lighting elements 100, such as 100 a and100 b or 100 a-100 c, may illuminate when a user manipulates bothassemblies 28, 32 to command such light output. In other embodiments,non-adjacent lighting elements 100, such as 100 a and 100 c or 100 b and100 d, may illuminate when a user manipulates both assemblies 28, 32 tocommand such light output. Other operational modes may be configuredwithin the portable light 10. For example, such operational modes mayinclude: i) one or more of the lighting elements 100 operating in aflashing pattern (e.g., strobe, SOS, or etc.), ii) one or more of thelighting elements 100 illuminating a color different in comparison tothe other lighting elements 100, iii) one or more of the lightingelements 100 illuminating different lumen outputs in comparison to theother lighting elements 100 (e.g., 100 a outputs 2000 lumen, while 100 boutputs 500 lumen), iv) one or more of the lighting elements 100illuminating only part of the lighting element 100 (e.g., one the bottomhalf of the lighting element 100 is illuminated), v) or a combination ofany of these operational modes.

Similar to the portable light 10 as described above, FIGS. 14-22 showanother embodiment of a portable light 1001. The portable light 1001 canbe selectively mounted in a various ways, can selected which lightingelements 1100 are illuminated, and select the luminosity level of thelighting elements 1100. For sake of brevity, the above disclosure inconnection with portable light 10 will not be repeated below, but itshould be understood that across embodiments like numbers represent likestructures. For example, the disclosure relating to lighting elements100 applies in equal force to lighting elements 1100. Further, it shouldbe understood that the operational modes of the portable light 1001 aresimilar to, or identical to, those disclosed regarding portable light10. Moreover, it is to be understood that any one or more features ofthe portable light 10 can be used in conjunction with those disclosedregarding the portable light 1001, and that any one or more features ofthe portable light 1001 can be used in conjunction with those disclosedregarding the portable light 10.

The primary differences between portable light 10 and portable light1001 are: i) the omission of the securement member 30 from the topassembly 1024, ii) the replacement of the retractable stabilizationassembly 192 with a securement assembly 1600, and iii) a rotary dial1046 that has dial grooves 61. Other than these differences, theportable light 1001 is mechanically and electrically the same as theportable light 10.

The securement assembly 1600 can support, suspend and/or brace theportable light 10 during operation, storage and/or transportation. Thesecond end 1018 includes a securement assembly 1600, which is pivotallyattached to the second end 1018. In other words, this configurationallows the securement assembly 1600 to be pivotally attached to thesecond end 1018 and can selectively rotate among a plurality oforientations with respect to the second end 1018.

The securement assembly 1600 has a first arcuate member 1602. The firstarcuate member 1602 may be selectively disposed in a first, or stowed,position 1610, as exemplarily shown in FIGS. 16-18 and 21-22. In thefirst position 1610, the first arcuate member 1602 is positionedadjacent to the magnet 1190 and above the bottom surface 199 of thebottom housing 186. Thus, the first arcuate member 1602 is positionedwithin the recess or circular groove 1206. In this first position 1610,the first arcuate member 1602 lies in a plane substantially parallelwith the bottom surface 199 of the bottom housing 186. In this secondposition 1612, the first arcuate member 1602 may be positioned at anyangle that places it below the bottom surface 199 and is fully deployedwhen first arcuate member 1602 is positioned substantially perpendicularto the bottom surface 199. It should be understood that the firstarcuate member 1602 may also have a releasable locking system (notshown), which may secure the first arcuate member 1602 in one or morepositions (e.g., first position 1610 or the second position 1612).

The securement assembly 1600 may also have a second arcuate member 1604.The second arcuate member 1604 may be selectively disposed in a first,or stowed, position 1610, as exemplarily shown in FIGS. 16-18 and 21-22.In the first position 1610, the second arcuate member 1604 is positionedadjacent to the magnet 1190 and above the bottom surface 199 of thebottom housing 186. Thus, the second arcuate member 1604 is positionedwithin the recess or circular groove 1206. In this first position 1610,the second arcuate member 1604 lies in a plane substantially parallelwith the bottom surface 199 of the bottom housing 186. In this secondposition 1612, the second arcuate member 1604 may be positioned at anyangle that places it below the bottom surface 199 and is fully deployedwhen second arcuate member 1604 is positioned substantiallyperpendicular to the bottom surface 199. It should be understood thatthe second arcuate member 1604 may also have a releasable locking system(not shown), which may secure the second arcuate member 1604 in one ormore positions (e.g., first position 1610 or the second position 1612).

When both the first and second arcuate members 1602, 1604 are in thesecond position (see FIG. 20), the arcuate members 1602, 1604 form anarch that extends from one side of the portable light 1001 to the otherside of the portable light 1001. Additionally, it should be understoodthat the first and second arcuate members 1602, 1604 can be movedindependently from each other. Further, it is contemplated by thisdisclosure that the arcuate members 1602, 1604 may have other shapes orthickness.

Similar to the portable light 10 as described above, FIGS. 23-25 showanother embodiment of a portable elongated light 2001. The portableelongated light 2001 can be selectively mounted in a various ways, canselected which lighting elements 2100 are illuminated, and select theluminosity level of the lighting elements 2100. For sake of brevity, theabove disclosure in connection with portable light 10 will not berepeated below, but it should be understood that across embodiments likenumbers represent like structures. For example, the disclosure relatingto lighting elements 100 applies in equal force to lighting elements2100. Further, it should be understood that the operational modes of theportable elongated light 2001 are similar to, or identical to, thosedisclosed regarding portable light 10. Moreover, it is to be understoodthat any one or more features of the portable light 10 can be used inconjunction with those disclosed regarding the portable elongated light2001, and that any one or more features of the portable elongated light2001 can be used in conjunction with those disclosed regarding theportable light 10.

The primary differences between portable light 10 and portable elongatedlight 2001 are: i) the omission of the textured or knurled surface 106from the mode selector ring 1082, ii) the omission of the textured orknurled surface 187 from the bottom housing 1186, and iii) the movementof the securement member 1030 from being positioned adjacent to theouter surface of the later face 1078 to being placed within the recess1038. Positioning the securement member 1030 within the recess 1038 maybe beneficial as may reduce the changes that the securement member 1030will be unintentionally be caught on a projection, which may break thesecurement member 1030.

The follow discusses accessories that may be used in connection with theportable light 10. For sake of brevity, the following accessories willonly be discussed in connection with portable light 10. However, itshould be understood that the following accessories may be used inconnection with any embodiment of the portable light 10, including thesecond embodiment 1001 and the third embodiment 2001. A first accessorymay include a flashlight head that can be connected the second end 18 ofthe portable light 10. Specifically, the user may remove the second endassembly 142 from the portable light 10 and replace this assembly 142with a flashlight head. This first accessory would be directly connectedto the power source 134 and would draw power therefrom. The firstaccessory may include a cone shaped body, a reflector positioned withinthe cone shaped body, an emitter positioned at the base of thereflector, and a switch. This first accessory allows a user to focuslight in a direction that is perpendicular to the lighting elements 100.During operation, this first accessory may disable the lighting elementsor may be above to functional along with them. This accessory may bedesirable because it may allow the portable elongated light to switchoperate as a lantern (e.g., illuminating the lighting elements) in afirst mode and operate like a portable flashlight (e.g., illuminatingthe flashlight head) in a second mode.

A second accessory may include a speaker that can be connected thesecond end 18 of the portable light 10. Specifically, the user mayremove the second end assembly 142 from the portable light 10 andreplace this assembly 142 with a speaker. This second accessory would bedirectly connected to the power source 134 and would draw powertherefrom. The second accessory may include a wireless module, a one/offbutton, and a pairing button. The wireless module contained within thespeaker allows a user to connect a portable device, like a cellularphone or laptop, in order for the speaker to receive and play audiosignals. The on/off button turns on and off the speaker and the pairingbutton sends a signal to the wireless module to facilitate the pairingof the wireless module with the portable device. This second accessorymay have the same diameter or a larger diameter than the portable light10. This second accessory enables the user to listen to music, whileutilizing the light that is emitted from the portable light 10.

A third accessory may include a sensor, a wireless module, or a sensorand wireless module that can be connected the second end 18 of theportable light 10. Specifically, the user may remove the second endassembly 142 from the portable light 10 and replace this assembly 142with a sensor or wireless module. This third accessory would be directlyconnected to the power source 134 and would draw power therefrom. Thesensor may be motion, light, pressure, moisture, acceleration, sound, orany combination of these sensors. The wireless module may be compatiblewith Bluetooth, NFC, Felica, WiFi, Zigbee, RFID, cellular, WiMAX, ISM,or any combination of these technologies. For example, if a local lightsensor is contained within the third accessory, the portable light 10may un-illuminate the lighting elements 100 in response to detectinglight that is local to the portable light 10. In another example, if alocal sound sensor (e.g., a microphone) is contained within the thirdaccessory, the user may use voice commands to turn on the portable light10. Alternatively, if a wireless module is attached to the portablelight 10, then the elongated light can be controlled by a remote device(e.g., cellular phone, laptop, RF remote control, wireless camera,remote motion sensor, remote light sensor, timer, or remote devicesdescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/812,852, filed on May17, 2018, and which is fully incorporated herein by reference). Thisthird accessory enables the control of the portable light 10 by eitherremotely by a user or by sensors, which may be desirable in a number ofsituations.

The fourth accessory may include a tripod. Specifically, the user mayremove the second end assembly 142 from the portable light 10 andreplace this assembly 142 with a connector that can attach to a tripod.This accessory may be beneficial for work at construction sites or aphoto shoot.

The fifth accessory may include a charging base. Specifically, the usermay remove the second end assembly 142 from the portable light 10 andreplace this assembly 142 with second end assembly that includes an usbreceptacle or multiple usb receptacles. Specifically, the receptaclesmay be positioned in the current location of the magnet 190 or they maybe positioned on the surface of the bottom housing 186 that isperpendicular to the bottom surface 199. The positioning on this lateralsurface may be beneficial because it would allow a user to place thesecond end 18 on the support surface, while having access to the usbreceptacle. This fifth accessory would be directly connected to thepower source 134 and would draw power therefrom.

The sixth accessory may include different types or spare power sources134. Accordingly, this sixth accessory may be a removablenon-rechargeable battery, a combination of removable non-rechargeablebatteries, a removable rechargeable battery, a combination of removablerechargeable batteries, a combination of removable rechargeablebatteries disposed within a battery cartridge 250, a non-removablerechargeable battery, a combination of non-removable rechargeablebatteries disposed within a battery cartridge 250, a DC power supplythat is configured to connect to a 12 volt car battery, a DC powersupply that is configured to connect to a 110 volt alternative currentoutlet, or any other type of power supply that is known to a person ofskill in the art.

The seventh accessory may include any combination of accessories onethrough sixth. For example, it may be desirable to have a portable light10 that has a rechargeable battery that includes an usb receptaclethereon and the bottom housing may also have an usb receptacle. Thiswould allow the user to charge the rechargeable battery using an usbcable. After the battery is charged and placed within the portable light10, the user can then charge their cellular phone from the portablelight 10 without removing the battery from the light. Alternatively, itmay be desirable to use a tripod in connection with a power source thatincludes an AC-DC converter. Other embodiments or combinations arecontemplated by this disclosure.

The portable light 10 enables numerous benefits over prior lightingsystems. Unlike a lighting system that merely offers a single mountingconfiguration, luminosity mode and/or operational mode, the presentdisclosure provides for a system that synergistically and advantageouslycombines at least all of these features to create a unified systemproviding flexibility, portability and varied operational modecapabilities.

While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the bestmode and/or other examples, it is understood that various modificationsmay be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may beimplemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may beapplied in numerous applications, only some of which have been describedherein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and allapplications, modifications and variations that fall within the truescope of the present teachings. Other implementations are alsocontemplated.

While some implementations have been illustrated and described, numerousmodifications come to mind without significantly departing from thespirit of the disclosure; and the scope of protection is only limited bythe scope of the accompanying claims. For example, the overall shape ofthe portable light 10 may be a triangular prism, a rectangular prism, acube, a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, octagonal prism, sphere, acone, a tetrahedron, a cuboid, a dodecahedron, a icosahedron, a torus, aoctahedron, a ellipsoid, or any other similar shape. Specifically, theportable light 10 can have a triangular or spherical shape and includesan arrangement of a plurality of ribs 150, lighting elements 100, aswell as the mode selector assembly 32 and the luminosity selectorassembly 28. In this embodiment, the mode selector assembly 32 and theluminosity selector assembly 28 may be depressible buttons. Similarly,the portable light 10 may be configured to have a hexagonal prism shape,where there are six lighting elements 100. Specifically, the lightingelements 100 may be positioned on the sides of the prism and the ribs150 may be positioned on the vertices. Further, the mode selectorassembly 32 and the luminosity selector assembly 28 may be positioned onthe top of the hexagonal prism.

The portable light 10 may have a length that is between 14 and 4 inches,preferably between 12 and 6 inches, and most preferably between of 10and 8 inches. The portable light 10 may have a width that is between 5and 0.5 inches, preferably between 3 and 1 inches, and most preferablybetween 2 inches and 1.5 inches. For example, the portable light 10 makehave a length that is approximately 8 times the width, preferably 6times the width, and most preferably at least 5 times the width. In acommercial embodiment, the portable light 10 may have a length that isapproximately 9.5±1 inches and a diameter that is approximately 1.7±0.5inches. This configuration allows the portable light 10 to have anelongated configuration, as the length is substantially greater than thewidth.

In an embodiment where the portable light 10 has a diameter that is 1.8inches and has four evenly spaced lighting elements 100, the arc lengthof each lighting element 100 may be between 0.4 and 0.2 inches,preferably between 0.35 and 0.25, and most preferably between 0.32 and0.28. In an embodiment where the portable light 10 has a diameter thatis 1.8 inches and the retractable stabilization assembly 192 is in theretracted position 210, the outer diameter of the retractablestabilization assembly 192 is 1.8 inches. In other words, when theretractable stabilization assembly 192 is in the retracted position 210,the retractable stabilization assembly 192 has an outer diameter that isthe same as the diameter of the portable light 10. In an embodimentwhere the portable light 10 has a diameter that is 1.8 inches and theretractable stabilization assembly 192 is in the deployed position orextended position 212, the outer diameter of the retractablestabilization assembly 192 is between 2.5 inches and 5 inches. In otherwords, when the retractable stabilization assembly 192 is in thedeployed position 212, the retractable stabilization assembly 192 has anouter diameter that is larger outer diameter than the portable light 10.In some embodiments, the when the retractable stabilization assembly 192is in the deployed position 212, the retractable stabilization assembly192 has an outer diameter that is 4 times larger than the outer diameterthan the portable light 10, preferably 3 times larger than the outerdiameter than the portable light 10, and most preferably at least 1.5times larger than the outer diameter than the portable light 10.

In an alternative embodiment, the mode selector assembly 32 and theluminosity selector assembly 28 may be combined into a single assemblythat controls both the luminosity and the operational mode of theportable light 10. For example, this combination assembly may be one ormore buttons, switches, sliders, local sensors (e.g., motion, light,sound, heat, motion), or other types of electrical selection devices. Inone embodiment, this combination assembly may be a single button thatallows the user to select the illumination mode and the operation modeof the portable light 10 by utilizing a combination of depressing and/orholding the button in a depressed state. For example, the user: (i) maydepress the button one time to turn “On” on a single lighting element100, (ii) may depress the button three time to turn “On” on a threelighting element 100, and (iii) depress and hold the button apredetermined amount of time to alter the brightness or luminositylevel. Additionally, this single assembly may be remotely located fromthe portable light 10. Accordingly, in this configuration, the portablelight 10 would not have any features on the portable light 10 itselfthat would allow a user to control the operation of the lightingelements 100. This configuration may allow the portable light 10 to bewaterproofed for up to 30 meters. For example, the luminosity selectorassembly 28 may be located on a remote wireless device, such as theremote devices described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/812,852,filed on May 17, 2018, and which is fully incorporated herein byreference. Another example of a remote wireless device includes acellphone, laptop, RF remote control, or other devices that areconnected to the portable light 10 via the internet (e.g., wirelesscamera, motion sensor, light sensor, timer, etc.).

In one embodiment, the emitter assembly 164 may be a COB LED, which doesnot need a secondary optic, they have good heat dissipation, and canhave a higher density to form a more uniform/higher lumen light. Itshould be understood that different types of emitter assembly 164 may beutilized, such: (i) a standard LED, (ii) organic LED, (iii) inductionlight panel, (iv) silicon quantum dot phosphor (SiQD-phosphor), or (v)surface-mount device LED. Further, it should be understood that acombination of the different types of emitter assembly 164 may beutilized. For example, one light emitter assembly 164 may be a surfacemounted LED, while other light emitters 164 may be COB LEDs. It shouldalso be understood, that lens 168 may also be omitted. In thisconfiguration, there is no primary optic, no secondary optic, and noreflector.

Depending on type of selected emitter assembly 164 and the lightdistribution pattern, the shape of the lens 168 may vary. For example,as shown in FIGS. 10-11, the lens 168 may have a substantially uniformthickness across the emitter assembly 164. It should be understood thatwhile the lens 168 may continue to have a substantially uniformthickness, the lens 168 may have a greater curvature or less curvature,which in turn will provide a more focused or less focused lightdistribution pattern, respectively. It should be understood that theouter surface 174 of the lens 168 may have a different configuration,where the lens 168 does not have a substantially uniform thickness. Forexample, the outer surface 174 of the lens 168 may have a greatercurvature than the inner surface 172. Other thickness variations and/orcurvatures combinations are contemplated by this disclosure. Forexample, some of the lighting elements 100 may have a lens 168 that hasa greater curvature, while other lighting elements 100 may have a lens168 that has a greater curvature. This configuration allows the user tofurther choose the desired light distribution pattern.

The upper housing 26, intermediate housing 140, and the bottom housing185 may be combined into a single housing and the power source may be arechargeable battery that is not intended to be removed from thehousing. The upper housing 26, intermediate housing 140, and bottomhousing 186 may be formed from metal, such as aluminum or steel, apolymer material, such as plastic, or a combination of metal and apolymer material. The lens 168 may be made from a polymer material, suchas plastic, and may be transparent, partially-transparent, or colored.Some or all of the ribs 150 may be made from a magnet material. Theouter rim 40 may also be made from a magnet material.

All elements of the portable light 10 may be colored black except for:i) selection indicator 108, ii) mode indicia 110, iii) cap 48, iv)luminosity indicator 62, v) lighting elements 100, vi) connector ring36, and connector ring 182. In particular, the connector rings 36, 182may be colored green. The outer surface 176 of the ribs 150 may includeindicia, such as the manufacturer of the light 10 or may be personalizedto include a person's name or information.

Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and arenot limiting. The word exemplary is used to mean serving as an exampleor illustration. To the extent that the term include, have, or the likeis used, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar tothe term comprise as comprise is interpreted when employed as atransitional word in a claim. Relational terms such as first and secondand the like may be used to distinguish one entity or action fromanother without necessarily requiring or implying any actual suchrelationship or order between such entities or actions.

Phrases such as an aspect, the aspect, another aspect, some aspects, oneor more aspects, an implementation, the implementation, anotherimplementation, some implementations, one or more implementations, anembodiment, the embodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one ormore embodiments, a configuration, the configuration, anotherconfiguration, some configurations, one or more configurations, thesubject technology, the disclosure, the present disclosure, othervariations thereof and alike are for convenience and do not imply that adisclosure relating to such phrase(s) is essential to the subjecttechnology or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of thesubject technology. A disclosure relating to such phrase(s) may apply toall configurations, or one or more configurations. A disclosure relatingto such phrase(s) may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as anaspect or some aspects may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa,and this applies similarly to other foregoing phrases.

Numerous modifications to the present disclosure will be apparent tothose skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Preferredembodiments of this disclosure are described herein, including the bestmode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure. It shouldbe understood that the illustrated embodiments are exemplary only, andshould not be taken as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

I claim:
 1. A portable lantern light with multiple independent selectorassemblies, the portable lantern light comprising: a central bodydefining a receiver, the central body having: a plurality of externalribs arranged around a periphery of the central body, wherein the ribsextend longitudinally along a length of the central body; a channelpositioned between a pair of external ribs, wherein the channel extendslongitudinally along the central body; a lighting element residingwithin the channel, wherein said lighting element extends longitudinallyalong the central body, and wherein the lighting element does notinclude either a reflector or a secondary optic; a lens overlying thelighting element and positioned within the channel, wherein the lensacts as a primary optic and extends longitudinally along the centralbody; a power source that includes a battery cartridge and a pluralityof batteries that are removably positioned within the cartridge, whereinthe power source is removably inserted within the receiver of thecentral body; a first end assembly operably coupled to the central body,the lighting elements and the power source, said first end assemblyincluding: an operating mode selector assembly to selectively controlwhich lighting elements are illuminated during operation of the portablelantern light; a luminosity selector assembly to selectively control thelumen output of the lighting elements that are selected for illuminationduring operation of the portable lantern light; and, a second endassembly operably coupled to the central body and including aretractable stabilization assembly, said retractable stabilizationassembly configured to be positioned in at least a deployed position anda retracted positon.
 2. The lantern light of claim 1, wherein when theretractable stabilization assembly is in the deployed position, anextent of the retractable stabilization assembly extends radially beyondan outer diameter of the second end assembly, and wherein when theretractable stabilization assembly is in the retracted position, theretractable stabilization assembly remains within and does not extendradially beyond the outer diameter of the second end assembly.
 3. Thelantern light of claim 2, wherein a magnet is positioned within theretractable stabilization assembly of the second end assembly.
 4. Thelantern light of claim 1, wherein the first end assembly includes asecurement member that can be moved by a user between a deployedposition or a retracted position, wherein in the deployed position, themember extends beyond an upper surface of the first end assembly, andwherein in the retracted position, the securement member is positionedbelow the upper surface of the first end assembly.
 5. The lantern lightof claim 1, the battery cartridge having a first end and a second end,wherein either end of the battery cartridge can be positioned tooperably contact the first end assembly without reconfiguring thebattery cartridge or circuity contained within the portable light. 6.The lantern light of claim 1, wherein the lighting element includes anemitter assembly operably connected to a lighting element printedcircuit board (PCB), said emitter assembly includes a plurality ofindividual emitters that are oriented towards the lens.
 7. The lanternlight of claim 6, wherein the emitter assembly is a chip on board (COB)LED, and wherein the lens overlies the entirety of the COB LED.
 8. Thelantern light of claim 6, wherein the emitter assembly overlies anintermediate portion of the lighting element PCB while exposing an upperend portion of the lighting element PCB that is electrically connectedto a power source PCB.
 9. The lantern light of claim 1, wherein theouter surface of the lens is substantially flush with an outer surfaceof the elongated ribs.
 10. The lantern light of claim 1, the first endassembly including an upper housing that is operably coupled to an upperend of the central body, the operating mode selector assembly includinga mode selector slidingly coupled to the upper housing, wherein a userangularly displaces the mode selector ring relative to the upper housingto select which lighting element is to be illuminated during operationof the lantern light.
 11. The lantern light of claim 10, wherein themode selector is configured as a ring that overlaps a substantial extentof the upper housing while an upper flange of the upper housing remainsexposed, said upper flange including lighting element indiciadesignating which lighting element is to be illuminated during operationof the lantern light.
 12. The lantern light of claim 11, wherein themode selector ring includes a selection indicator that is configured tobe aligned by an operator with the lighting element indicia to designatewhich lighting element is to be illuminated during operation of thelantern light.
 13. The lantern light of claim 1, wherein the externalribs include a projection that extends longitudinally beyond an upperend of the central body; and, wherein the first end assembly includes apower source printed circuit board (PCB) with at least one aperture,wherein the aperture is configured to receive the projection tomechanically couple the power source PCB to the central body.
 14. Aportable lantern light comprising: a central body defining an elongatedreceiver, the central body including: (i) a plurality of externallongitudinal ribs that are arranged along a length of the central body;(ii) a plurality of longitudinal channels, wherein a single channel ispositioned between a pair of external ribs; (iii) a plurality oflighting elements, wherein a lighting element resides within a channel,and wherein the lighting elements do not include either a reflector or asecondary optic; (iv) a plurality of lens, wherein a lens overlies alighting element and is positioned within the channel, wherein the lensacts as a primary optic and extends longitudinally along the centralbody; and, (v) a power source that includes a battery cartridge and aplurality of batteries that are removably positioned within thecartridge, wherein the power source is removably inserted within thereceiver of the central body; a first end assembly operably coupled tothe central body, the lighting elements and the power source, said firstend assembly including an operating mode selector assembly toselectively control which lighting elements are illuminated duringoperation of the portable lantern light; and, a second end assemblyoperably coupled to the central body to enclose the power source withinthe receiver of the central body.
 15. The lantern light of claim 14,wherein the second end assembly includes a a retractable stabilizationassembly that is movable between a deployed position and a retractedpositon; wherein in the deployed position, an extent of the retractablestabilization assembly extends radially beyond an outer diameter of thesecond end assembly, and wherein in the retracted position, theretractable stabilization assembly remains within and does not extendradially beyond the outer diameter of the second end assembly.
 16. Thelantern light of claim 15, wherein a magnet is positioned within theretractable stabilization assembly of the second end assembly.
 17. Thelantern light of claim 14, wherein the first end assembly includes asecurement member that can be moved by a user between a deployedposition or a retracted position, wherein in the deployed position, themember extends beyond an upper surface of the first end assembly, andwherein in the retracted position, the securement member is positionedbelow the upper surface of the first end assembly.
 18. The lantern lightof claim 14, the battery cartridge having a first end and a second end,wherein either end of the battery cartridge can be positioned tooperably contact the first end assembly without reconfiguring thebattery cartridge or circuity contained within the portable light 19.The lantern light of claim 14, wherein the lighting element includes anemitter assembly operably connected to a lighting element printedcircuit board (PCB), said emitter assembly being a chip on board (COB)LED.
 20. The lantern light of claim 19, wherein the emitter assemblyoverlies an intermediate portion of the lighting element PCB whileexposing an upper end portion of the lighting element PCB that iselectrically connected to a power source PCB.
 21. The lantern light ofclaim 14, the first end assembly including an upper housing that isoperably coupled to an upper end of the central body, the operating modeselector assembly including a mode selector slidingly coupled to theupper housing, wherein a user angularly displaces the mode selector ringrelative to the upper housing to select which lighting element is to beilluminated during operation of the lantern light.
 22. The lantern lightof claim 21, wherein the mode selector is configured as a ring thatoverlaps a substantial extent of the upper housing while an upper flangeof the upper housing remains exposed, said upper flange includinglighting element indicia designating which lighting element is to beilluminated during operation of the lantern light.
 23. The lantern lightof claim 14, wherein the external ribs include a projection that extendslongitudinally beyond an upper end of the central body; and, wherein thefirst end assembly includes a power source printed circuit board (PCB)with at least one aperture, and wherein the aperture is configured toreceive the projection to mechanically couple the power source PCB tothe central body.
 24. The lantern light of claim 14, wherein the firstend assembly further includes a luminosity selector assembly toselectively control the lumen output of the lighting elements that areselected for illumination during operation of the portable lanternlight.